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Tanktop vs. Singlet: What's the Difference?

Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 4, 2023
A tanktop is a sleeveless shirt with wide shoulder straps, while a singlet is often a more form-fitting, athletic sleeveless garment.

Key Differences

Tanktops and singlets are both sleeveless upper garments, but they serve different primary functions and styles. A tanktop is characterized by its wider shoulder straps and a more relaxed fit. It can be worn as a casual piece of clothing or as an undergarment. Tanktops are versatile and can be found in various materials, from cotton to synthetic blends, suitable for daily wear or even for a night out. Singlets, in comparison, have a more athletic origin.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
The singlet, on the other hand, is usually more form-fitting and is designed for athletic purposes. It's the garment of choice for wrestlers, runners, and some weightlifters. Singlets typically have thinner straps, hug the body more closely, and are made of stretchy materials that move with the athlete. While they're primarily for sport, singlets have also found their way into fashion circles, especially in streetwear.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
While both tanktops and singlets can be made of similar materials, the design and cut often differentiate them. A tanktop might be more breathable with a looser fit, making it ideal for hot days or lounging around. Singlets, due to their athletic nature, often have moisture-wicking properties and are designed to reduce chafing, providing optimal performance during physical activities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
Though the terms "tanktop" and "singlet" might sometimes be used interchangeably in casual conversation, especially in different regions or countries, their distinct characteristics and purposes set them apart. It's essential to consider the garment's function, fit, and design when distinguishing between them.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 04, 2023

Comparison Chart

Primary Use

Casual wear or undergarment.
Athletic or sportswear.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
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Fit

Generally relaxed.
Form-fitting.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Strap Width

Wider straps.
Thinner straps.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Design

Casual, various styles available.
Athletic, designed for specific sports.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023

Material Variance

Wide range, including cotton, synthetics.
Typically stretchy, moisture-wicking materials.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023

Tanktop and Singlet Definitions

Tanktop

A garment that can be both an outer and under piece.
Her lace tanktop peeked out from beneath her blazer.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
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Singlet

Often used in sports like wrestling or running.
He set a new record in the 100m dash, wearing his lucky singlet.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023

Tanktop

A versatile upper garment without sleeves.
He layered his tanktop under a button-up shirt.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Singlet

Designed to move with the athlete's body.
Her singlet was moisture-wicking, keeping her dry during the marathon.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023

Tanktop

A sleeveless shirt with wide shoulder straps.
She wore a floral tanktop to the summer festival.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Singlet

An athletic, form-fitting sleeveless garment.
The wrestler wore a blue singlet to the match.
Harlon Moss
Oct 04, 2023
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Tanktop

Typically has a U or scoop neckline.
The deep scoop of the tanktop flattered her necklace.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023

Singlet

Sometimes adopted into street fashion styles.
The street dancer wore a neon singlet for his performance.
Sara Rehman
Oct 04, 2023

Tanktop

Often used for casual wear in warm weather.
The cotton tanktop kept him cool at the beach.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Singlet

A sleeveless, tight-fitting undershirt or athletic shirt.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Tanktop

Alternative spelling of tank top
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A tight-fitting, one-piece garment consisting of shorts and a sleeveless top with a collar that sometimes dips low on the chest, worn in wrestling.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

(Physics) A multiplet with a single member.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A set of one, an item not part of a larger set, particularly
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

(physics) A multiplet having a single member, especially a single spectroscopic peak.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A quantum state having zero spin.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A person who does not have a form of multiplicity, i.e. a single persona occupying one human body.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A single piece of clothing, particularly
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A sleeveless buttonless shirt with a low-cut neck.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

(sports) A one-piece, tight-fitting uniform, usually made of spandex or nylon, required in wrestling and powerlifting.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

An unlined or undyed waistcoat; a single garment; - opposed to doublet.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A collarless men's undergarment for the upper part of the body
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 26, 2022

Singlet

A tight sleeveless shirt with thin shoulder straps.
The weightlifter's singlet showcased his toned arms.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023

FAQs

Are singlets only for wrestling?

No, singlets are also used in running, weightlifting, and other sports.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 04, 2023

Can a tanktop be used for sports?

Yes, but singlets are specifically designed for certain athletic activities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Is a "wife-beater" the same as a tanktop?

The term "wife-beater" (which can be considered offensive) refers to a specific style of tanktop.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Can tanktops be worn by all genders?

Absolutely, tanktops are versatile and come in styles suitable for everyone.
Janet White
Oct 04, 2023

Are all singlets tight-fitting?

Generally, yes. They're designed to be form-fitting for athletic purposes.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023

Why do singlets have thin straps?

Thin straps allow for better mobility.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 04, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira Riaz
Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera Saeed
Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.

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